Low stress hard coatings and applications thereof

ABSTRACT

In one aspect, coated cutting tools are described herein comprising a substrate and a coating comprising a refractory layer deposited by physical vapor deposition adhered to the substrate, the refractory layer comprising M 1-x Al x N wherein x≧0.68 and M is titanium, chromium or zirconium, the refractory layer including a cubic crystalline phase and having hardness of at least 25 GPa.

RELATED APPLICATION DATA

The present application is a continuation-in-part of U.S. patent application Ser. No. 13/969,330 filed Aug. 16, 2013, which is incorporated herein by reference in its entirety.

FIELD

The present invention relates to hard refractory coatings for cutting tools and wear parts and, in particular, to refractory coatings deposited by physical vapor deposition demonstrating high thickness, high hardness and low stress.

BACKGROUND

One or more layers of refractory material are often applied to cutting tool surfaces by physical vapor deposition (PVD) techniques to increase properties including wear resistance, performance and lifetime of the cutting tool. Titanium nitride (TiN) coatings, for example, are commonly applied by PVD to cemented carbide cutting tool substrates. However, TiN begins oxidation at about 500° C. forming rutile TiO₂, thereby promoting rapid coating deterioration. Incorporation of aluminum into the cubic lattice can slow degradative oxidation of a TiN coating by forming a protective aluminum-rich oxide film at the coating surface.

While providing enhancement to high temperature stability, aluminum can also induce structural changes in a TiN coating having a negative impact on coating performance. Increasing amounts of aluminum incorporated into a TiN coating can induce growth of hexagonal close packed (hcp) aluminum nitride (AlN) phase, altering the crystalline structure of the coating from single phase cubic to a mixture of cubic and hexagonal phases. Aluminum content in excess of 70 atomic percent can further alter the crystalline structure of the AlTiN layer to single phase hcp. Significant amounts of hexagonal phase can lead to a considerable reduction in hardness of AlTiN, resulting in premature coating failure or other undesirable performance characteristics. The inability to sufficiently control hexagonal phase formation has obstructed full realization of the advantages offered by aluminum additions to TiN coatings.

Further, PVD coatings, including AlTiN, are limited in thickness due to high residual compressive stresses induced by ion bombardment during the deposition process. Residual compressive stress only increases with coating thickness rendering the coating susceptible to delamination or other adhesive failure modes. Bias voltage of the substrate can be reduced to mitigate residual compressive stress in PVD coatings. Nevertheless, reduction in bias voltages can significantly compromise coating hardness. For example, in AlTiN and similar systems, reduction in bias voltage promotes hexagonal phase formation.

In view of these considerations, significant barriers exist to providing PVD coatings of AlTiN having high aluminum content, high hardness, high thickness and/or low residual compressive stress.

SUMMARY

In one aspect, solutions to the forgoing barriers are addressed herein to provide cutting tools and wear parts PVD coatings having high aluminum content, high hardness, high thickness and/or low residual compressive stress. For example, a coated cutting tool described herein, in some embodiments, comprises a substrate and a refractory layer deposited by PVD adhered to the substrate, the refractory layer comprising M_(1-x)Al_(x)N wherein x≧0.4 and M is titanium, chromium or zirconium, the refractory layer having a thickness greater than 5 μm, hardness of at least 25 GPa and residual compressive stress less than 2.5 GPa. Further, the refractory layer can have hexagonal phase content greater than 15 weight percent and up to 35 weight percent. As described further herein, the refractory layer comprising M_(1-x)Al_(x)N can be a single, monolithic layer or can be formed of a plurality of sublayers.

In another aspect, a coated cutting tool described herein comprises a substrate and a coating comprising a refractory layer deposited by physical vapor deposition adhered to the substrate, the refractory layer comprising M_(1-x)Al_(x)N wherein x≧0.68 and M is titanium, chromium or zirconium, the refractory layer including a cubic crystalline phase and having hardness of at least 25 GPa.

In another aspect, methods of making coated cutting tools are described herein. A method of making a coated cutting tool, in some embodiments, comprises providing a substrate and depositing over a surface of the cutting tool substrate by cathodic arc deposition a coating comprising a refractory layer including M_(1-x)Al_(x)N wherein x≧0.4 and M is titanium, chromium or zirconium, the refractory layer having a thickness greater than 5 μm, a hardness of at least 25 GPa and a residual compressive stress less than 2.5 GPa. In some embodiments, at least a portion of the refractory layer is deposited at a bias of less than −40 V. For example, the bias can be in the range of −20 V to less than −40 V.

In another embodiment, a method of making a coated cutting tool comprises providing a cutting tool substrate and depositing a coating over a surface of the substrate, the coating comprising a refractory layer including M_(1-x)Al_(x)N wherein x≧0.64 and M is titanium, chromium or zirconium, the refractory layer having hardness of at least 25 GPa, wherein the refractory layer is deposited with a cathodic arc deposition apparatus comprising at least one anode having an annular extension.

In a further aspect, methods of making coated cutting tools described herein can limit or control hexagonal phase formation in the deposited refractory layer. In some embodiments, a method of making a coated cutting tool comprises providing a substrate and depositing over a surface of the substrate by cathodic arc deposition a coating comprising a refractory layer of M_(1-x)Al_(x)N wherein x≧0.4 and M is titanium, chromium or zirconium, wherein at least a portion of the refractory layer is deposited at a bias of less than −40 V and hexagonal phase is limited in the refractory layer to 0-35 weight percent by using at least one cathode target having a diameter less than about 80 mm.

Moreover, a method of making a coated cutting tool comprises providing a substrate and depositing over a surface of the substrate by cathodic arc deposition a coating comprising a refractory layer of M_(1-x)Al_(x)N wherein x≧0.4 and M is titanium, chromium or zirconium, wherein at least a portion of the refractory layer is deposited at a bias of less than −40 V and hexagonal phase is limited in the refractory layer to 0-35 weight percent by reducing magnitude of one or more arc steering magnetic fields.

Further, a method of making a coated cutting tool comprises providing a substrate and depositing over a surface of the substrate by cathodic arc deposition a coating comprising a refractory layer including M_(1-x)Al_(x)N wherein x≧0.4 and M is titanium, chromium, zirconium or zirconium, wherein at least a portion of the refractory layer is deposited at a bias of less than −40 V and hexagonal phase is limited in the refractory layer to 0-35 weight percent by depositing the refractory layer as a plurality of sublayer groups, a sublayer group comprising a cubic phase forming nanolayer and adjacent nanolayer of the M_(1-x)Al_(x)N.

Additionally, a method of making a coated cutting tool comprises providing a substrate and depositing over a surface of the substrate by cathodic arc deposition a coating comprising a refractory layer of M_(1-x)Al_(x)N wherein x≧0.4 and M is titanium, chromium or zirconium, wherein at least a portion of the refractory layer is deposited at a bias of less than −40 V and hexagonal phase is limited in the refractory layer to 0-35 weight percent by depositing the refractory layer with a cathodic arc apparatus including at least one anode having an annular extension.

These and other embodiments are described in greater detail in the detailed description which follows.

BRIEF DESCRIPTION OF THE DRAWINGS

FIG. 1 illustrates a cutting tool substrate according to one embodiment described herein.

FIG. 2 is a schematic of a coated cutting tool according to one embodiment described herein.

FIG. 3 is a schematic of a coated cutting tool according to one embodiment described herein.

FIG. 4 is a cross-sectional schematic of an anode configuration employing an annular extension according to one embodiment described herein.

FIG. 5 is an X-ray diffractogram of a refractory coating according to one embodiment described herein.

FIG. 6 is an X-ray diffractogram of a refractory coating according to one embodiment described herein.

FIG. 7 is an X-ray diffractogram of a refractory coating according to one embodiment described herein.

FIG. 8 is an X-ray diffractogram of a refractory coating according to one embodiment described herein.

FIG. 9 illustrates non-limiting reference examples of PVD coating flaking for determining critical load (L_(c)) according to embodiments described herein.

FIG. 10 is a schematic of a coated cutting tool according to one embodiment described herein.

FIG. 11 is an X-ray diffractogram of a refractory coating according to one embodiment described herein.

DETAILED DESCRIPTION

Embodiments described herein can be understood more readily by reference to the following detailed description and examples and their previous and following descriptions. Elements, apparatus and methods described herein, however, are not limited to the specific embodiments presented in the detailed description and examples. It should be recognized that these embodiments are merely illustrative of the principles of the present invention. Numerous modifications and adaptations will be readily apparent to those of skill in the art without departing from the spirit and scope of the invention.

I. Coated Cutting Tools

In one aspect, a coated cutting tool described herein comprises a substrate and a refractory layer deposited by PVD adhered to the substrate, the refractory layer comprising M_(1-x)Al_(x)N wherein x≧0.4 and M is titanium, chromium or zirconium, the refractory layer having a thickness greater than 5 m, hardness of at least 25 GPa and residual compressive stress less than 2.5 GPa. In some embodiments, x≧0.55 or ≧0.6. Further, the refractory layer can have hexagonal phase content greater than 15 weight percent and up to 35 weight percent.

In another aspect, a coated cutting tool comprises a substrate and a coating comprising a refractory layer deposited by physical vapor deposition adhered to the substrate, the refractory layer comprising M_(1-x)Al_(x)N wherein x≧0.68 and M is titanium, chromium or zirconium, the refractory layer including a cubic crystalline phase and having hardness of at least 25 GPa.

Turning now to specific components, coated cutting tools described herein comprise a substrate. A coated cutting tool can comprise any substrate not inconsistent with the objectives of the present invention. A substrate, in some embodiments, is an end mill, drill or indexable cutting insert. Indexable cutting inserts can have any desired ANSI standard geometry for milling or turning applications. Substrates of coated cutting tools described herein can be formed of cemented carbide, carbide, ceramic, cermet or steel. A cemented carbide substrate, in some embodiments, comprises tungsten carbide (WC). WC can be present in a cutting tool substrate in an amount of at least about 80 weight percent or in an amount of at least about 85 weight percent. Additionally, metallic binder of cemented carbide can comprise cobalt or cobalt alloy. Cobalt, for example, can be present in a cemented carbide substrate in an amount ranging from 3 weight percent to 15 weight percent. In some embodiments, cobalt is present in a cemented carbide substrate in an amount ranging from 5-12 weight percent or from 6-10 weight percent. Further, a cemented carbide substrate may exhibit a zone of binder enrichment beginning at and extending inwardly from the surface of the substrate.

Cemented carbide cutting tool substrates can also comprise one or more additives such as, for example, one or more of the following elements and/or their compounds: titanium, niobium, vanadium, tantalum, chromium, zirconium and/or hafnium. In some embodiments, titanium, niobium, vanadium, tantalum, chromium, zirconium and/or hafnium form solid solution carbides with WC of the substrate. In such embodiments, the substrate can comprise one or more solid solution carbides in an amount ranging from 0.1-5 weight percent. Additionally, a cemented carbide substrate can comprise nitrogen.

A cutting tool substrate can comprise one or more cutting edges formed at the juncture of a rake face and flank face(s) of the substrate. FIG. 1 illustrates a cutting tool substrate according to one embodiment described herein. As illustrated in FIG. 1, the substrate (10) has cutting edges (12) formed at junctions of the substrate rake face (14) and flank faces (16). The substrate (10) also comprises an aperture (18) for securing the substrate (10) to a tool holder.

In addition to cutting tools, substrates can comprise wear parts of varying construction and application.

As described herein, a coating comprising a refractory layer deposited by PVD is adhered to the substrate, the refractory layer comprising M_(1-x)Al_(x)N wherein x≧0.4 and M is titanium, chromium or zirconium, the refractory layer having a thickness greater than 5 μm, hardness of at least 25 GPa and residual compressive stress less than 2.5 GPa. Alternatively, a coating comprising a refractory layer deposited by PVD is adhered to the substrate, the refractory layer comprising M_(1-x)Al_(x)N wherein x≧0.68 and M is titanium, chromium or zirconium, the refractory layer including a cubic crystalline phase and hardness of at least 25 GPa. In some embodiments, x of a M_(1-x)Al_(x)N refractory layer described herein has a value selected from Table I.

TABLE I Al Content of M_(1-x)Al_(x)N Nanolayer (at. %) Value of x in M_(1-x)Al_(x)N ≧0.4 ≧0.5 ≧0.55 ≧0.6 ≧0.64 ≧0.68 ≧0.69 ≧0.7 ≧0.75  0.6-0.85 0.65-0.8  0.7-0.8  0.7-0.85 With a value of x selected from Table I, the refractory layer, in some embodiments, can exhibit hexagonal phase in an amount up to 35 weight percent. For example, the refractory layer can include hexagonal phase in an amount greater than 3 weight percent and up to 30 weight percent for x≧0.64 or x≧0.69. In some embodiments, the refractory layer has hexagonal phase content according to Table II.

TABLE II Hexagonal Phase Content of Refractory Layer Refractory Layer Hexagonal Phase (wt. %)  0-35  3-30 20-35 25-35 20-30  1-10 1-5 Additionally, in some embodiments, the refractory layer can exhibit a hexagonal content in excess of 35 weight percent. Further, a M_(1-x)Al_(x)N refractory layer described herein includes a cubic crystalline phase. In some embodiments, the cubic crystalline phase is the sole crystalline phase of the M_(1-x)Al_(x)N refractory layer. In embodiments wherein hexagonal phase is present in the M_(1-x)Al_(x)N refractory layer, cubic phase can constitute the balance of crystalline M_(1-x)Al_(x)N in the refractory layer. Cubic phase M_(1-x)Al_(x)N is generally desirable as it maintains high hardness and high temperature oxidation resistance of the refractory layer.

Phase determination, including hexagonal phase determination, of refractory coatings described herein is determined using x-ray diffraction (XRD) techniques and the Rietveld refinement method, which is a full fit method. The measured specimen profile and a calculated profile are compared. By variation of several parameters known to one of skill in the art, the difference between the two profiles is minimized. All phases present in a coating layer under analysis are accounted for in order to conduct a proper Rietveld refinement.

A cutting tool comprising a refractory coating described herein can be analyzed according to XRD using a grazing incidence technique requiring a flat surface. The cutting tool rake face or flank face can be analyzed depending on cutting tool geometry. XRD analysis of coatings described herein was completed using a parallel beam optics system fitted with a copper x-ray tube. The operating parameters were 45 KV and 40 MA. Typical optics for grazing incidence analysis included an x-ray mirror with 1/16 degree antiscatter slit and a 0.04 radian soller slit. Receiving optics included a flat graphite monochromator, parallel plate collimator and a sealed proportional counter. X-ray diffraction data was collected at a grazing incidence angle selected to maximize coating peak intensity and eliminate interference peaks from the substrate. Counting times and scan rate were selected to provide optimal data for the Rietveld analysis. Prior to collection of the grazing incidence data, the specimen height was set using x-ray beam splitting.

A background profile was fitted and peak search was performed on the specimen data to identify all peak positions and peak intensities. The peak position and intensity data was used to identify the crystal phase composition of the specimen coating using any of the commercially available crystal phase databases.

Crystal structure data was input for each of the crystalline phases present in the specimen.

Typical Rietveld refinement parameters settings are:

-   -   Background calculation method: Polynomial     -   Sample Geometry Flat Plate     -   Linear Absorption Coefficient: Calculated from average specimen         composition     -   Weighting Scheme Against lobs     -   Profile Function: Pseudo-Voigt     -   Profile Base Width: Chosen per specimen     -   Least Squares Type: Newton-Raphson     -   Polarization Coefficient: 1.0         The Rietveld refinement typically includes:     -   Specimen Displacement: shift of specimen from x-ray alignment     -   Background profile selected to best describe the background         profile of the diffraction data     -   Scale Function: scale function of each phase     -   B overall: displacement parameter applied to all atoms in phase     -   Cell parameters: a, b, c and alpha, beta, and gamma     -   W parameter: describes peak FWHM     -   Any additional parameter to achieve an acceptable “Weighted R         Profile”         All Rietveld phase analysis results are reported in weight         percent values.

The refractory layer comprising M_(1-x)Al_(x)N described herein has hardness of at least 25 GPa. Hardness values are determined according to ISO 14577 with a Vickers indenter at an indentation depth of 0.25 μm. In some embodiments, a refractory layer having a construction described herein, including an x value selected from Table I and hexagonal phase content selected from Table II, has hardness according to Table III.

TABLE III Refractory Layer Hardness (GPa) Hardness, GPa ≧25 ≧27 ≧28 25-35 25-30 26-32 27-35 28-35 30-35

In addition to hardness, the refractory layer comprising M_(1-x)Al_(x)N can have any thickness not inconsistent with the objectives of the present invention. The refractory layer, for example, can have a thickness of 1 μm to 10 μm or 2 μm to 8 μm. In some embodiments, a refractory layer comprising M_(1-x)Al_(x)N has a thickness greater than 5 μm. For example, a refractory layer having a construction described herein, including an x value selected from Table I, hexagonal phase content selected from Table II and hardness selected from to Table III, can have a thickness selected from Table IV.

TABLE IV Refractory Layer Thickness (μm) Thickness μm 1-3 1-5 ≧5 ≧6 ≧7 ≧8 ≧9 ≧10  6-30  8-20  9-15 Refractory layer thicknesses described herein were measured on a flank surface of the cutting tool.

As described further herein, refractory layers comprising M_(1-x)Al_(x)N, in some embodiments, are operable to have thickness values selected from Table IV while demonstrating residual compressive stress less than 2.5 GPa. In some embodiments, for example, the refractory layer comprising M_(1-x)Al_(x)N can have a residual compressive stress according to Table V and a thickness in excess of 5 μm.

TABLE V Refractory Layer Residual Compressive Stress Residual Compressive Stress, GPa ≦2.2 ≦2.0 ≦1.5 ≦1.0 0.5 to 2.5 0.8 to 2.0 1.0 to 1.5 In the absence of a specific designation as being compressive, residual stress values described herein can be assigned a negative value to indicate the residual stress is compressive. As is understood by one of skill in the art, residual stress, in the absence of a specific designation, is assigned positive values to indicate tensile stress and negative values to indicate compressive stress.

For refractory layers comprising M_(1-x)Al_(x)N described herein, a modified Sin² ψ method was used employing Seemann-Bohlin (S-B) focusing geometry for determining residual stress and shear stress. See V. Valvoda, R. Kuzel, R. Cerny, D. S. Rafaja, J. Musil, C. Kadlec, A. J. Perry, Thin Solid Films 193/194 (1990) 401. According to this method, interplanar spacing of all measurable diffraction peaks with different Miller (hkl) indices was determined using the grazing-incidence X-ray diffraction geometry. [Diffraction peaks of different (hkl) planes were collected in a single 2θ scan with a fixed incident-beam angle to the specimen.] Since diffraction planes produce different angles to the sample surface normal in the approach of Perry et al., sample tilting ψ is not necessary. Perry et al. provided that the angle ψ actually corresponds to the Bragg angle θ minus the grazing angle γ (ψ=θ−γ). Therefore, in a single 2θ scan, a range of ψ angles is automatically selected when a number of Bragg peaks with different Miller indices are measured at different 2θ angles. The residual stress was then derived from a plot of the lattice parameters calculated from different peaks vs. Sin² ψ.

For refractory layers comprising M_(1-x)Al_(x)N wherein M is titanium, for example, residual stress and shear stress was determined by x-ray diffraction using the grazing incidence Sin² ψ method with reference to multiple (hkl) reflections of the AlTiN crystalline phase. The instrument used for residual stress determination was a PANalytical Xpert Pro MRD fitted with an Eulerian cradle for specimen manipulation. The x-ray source was a copper long fine focus x-ray tube operating at 45 KV and 40 MA. The instrument was configured with parallel beam optics for the determination of the stress in the coatings. The incident optics included an x-ray mirror and 0.04 soller slit. The receiving optics included a 0.27 degree parallel plate collimator, a flat graphite monochromator and a sealed proportional counter.

The (111), (200), (220), (311), (222), (331), (420), and (422) reflections of AlTiN were selected for the measurement of the residual stress levels. The grazing incidence angle was selected to minimize the substrate reflections while insuring that entire refractory layer thickness is included in the analysis. Data collection parameters for step size and count time were adjusted for each (hkl) reflection to obtain adequate peak intensity for accurate determination of peak position.

Peak data was then corrected for Absorption and Transparency using the following equations:

Absorption Correction

$A = {\left\lbrack {1 - \frac{\tan\left( {\omega - \theta} \right)}{\tan\;\theta}} \right\rbrack \times \left\lbrack {1 - {\mathbb{e}}^{({{- \upsilon}\; t \times \frac{2\;\sin\;\theta \times {\cos{({\omega - \theta})}}}{{\sin^{2}\theta} - {\sin^{2}{({\omega - \theta})}}}})}} \right\rbrack}$

Transparency Correction

${\Delta 2\theta} = {\frac{180}{\pi} \times \frac{2\tau}{R} \times \frac{{\sin(\theta)}{\cos(\theta)}}{\sin(\omega)}}$ ${{with}\mspace{14mu}\tau} = {\frac{t}{\beta} \times \frac{{\left( {1 - \beta} \right) \times {\mathbb{e}}^{- \beta}} - {\mathbb{e}}^{- \beta}}{1 - {\mathbb{e}}^{- \beta}}}$ ${{and}\mspace{14mu}\beta} = \frac{2\mu\; t\;\sin\;\theta \times {\cos\left( {\omega - \theta} \right)}}{{\sin^{2}\theta} - {\sin^{2}\left( {\omega - \theta} \right)}}$

where:

-   -   t=thickness of layer     -   μ=linear absorption coefficient (cm⁻¹)     -   θ=2Theta/2 (degrees)     -   (ω−θ)=omega offset angle (degrees)     -   ψ=tilt angle (Psi stress) (degrees)     -   τ=information depth (microns)     -   R=Radius of goniometers (mm)         The peak data was corrected for Lorentz polarization using the         following equation:

Polarization Correction

${LP} = \frac{\cos^{2}2\theta_{mon} \times \cos^{2}2\theta}{\sin\;\theta}$

2θ_(mon)=diffraction angle of graphite monochromator

The Kα₂ peaks were removed using the Ladell model. Peak positions were refined using a modified Lorentzian shape profile function.

The refractory layer residual stress was calculated from the general equation:

$\frac{d_{\varphi\psi} - d_{0}}{d_{0}} = {{S_{1}\left( {\sigma_{1} + \sigma_{2}} \right)} + {\frac{1}{2}S_{2}\sigma_{\varphi}\sin^{2}\psi}}$

-   -   where σ_(φ)=σ₁ cos² φ+σ₂ sin² φ     -   d_(φψ)=lattice constant at angle φ and tilt ψ     -   d_(o)=strain free lattice constant     -   φ=rotation angle     -   ψ=specimen tilt     -   σ₁ & σ₂=primary stress tensors in specimen surface     -   σ_(φ)=stress at φ rotation angle     -   S₁ & ½ S₂=X-ray elastic constants

$S_{1} = {{\frac{- \upsilon}{E}\mspace{76mu}\frac{1}{2}S_{2}} = \frac{1 + \upsilon}{E}}$ For the present AlTiN analysis Poisson's Ratio (υ) was set to 0.20, and the elastic modulus (E in GPa) was determined from nano-indentation analysis conducted with a Fischerscope HM2000 in accordance with ISO standard 14577 using a Vickers indenter. Indentation depth was set to 0.25 μm. Residual stress analysis by XRD can be performed in a similar manner on refractory layers comprising Cr_(1-x)Al_(x)N and/or Zr_(1-x)Al_(x)N by selection of multiple (hkl) reflections appropriate for these compositions, as known to one of skill in the art. Further, Poisson's Ratio (υ) and elastic moduli (E) for layers of Cr_(1-x)Al_(x)N and/or Zr_(1-x)Al_(x)N can also be determined by nano-indentation analysis as described herein.

A refractory layer comprising M_(1-x)Al_(x)N described herein can demonstrate a critical load (L_(c)) of at least 60 kgf. Critical load characterizing adhesion of the refractory layer is determined according to the following protocol. A Rockwell Hardness Tester with superficial scales is employed having a Rockwell A or C brale indenter that is free of cracks, chip, flaws and adherent surface debris. Also employed are a spot anvil (0.25 inch diameter) and flat anvil (2 inch diameter). The appropriate pre-load (10 kg) for the indenter load being applied is selected. A flat surface of the coated substrate is selected and position on the anvil below the brale indenter and elevating screw is adjusted to the required zero scale position. Indentation(s) are applied at the desired superficial load (e.g. 60, 100, 150 kgf, etc.). The elevating screw is released and the sample is laterally positioned for application of the next load. Indents are spaced to avoid interference effects or contributions from neighboring indentations. The recommended spacing distance is 3-5× the diameter of the indentation. Any debonded but still adherent refractory layer can be removed by immersing the sample in an ultrasonic bath for several minutes. Alternatively, an adhesive tape can be used to remove debonded refractory layer. The indented samples are examined for flaking and delamination along the surface perimeter of the indent under optical microscope (10×-100×). Critical load (L_(c)) is reported at the load where coating flaking and/or delamination occur beyond the diameter of the indent. FIG. 9 illustrates non-limiting reference examples of flaking of a PVD coating under the present adhesion test. A refractory layer comprising M_(1-x)Al_(x)N, in some embodiments, exhibits an L_(c) selected from Table VI.

TABLE VI Critical Load (L_(c)) of M_(1-x)Al_(x)N RefractoryLayer  ≧60 kgf ≧100 kgf ≧150 kgf

The refractory layer comprising M_(1-x)Al_(x)N and having properties of Tables I-VI herein, in some embodiments, is deposited as a single continuous layer of M_(1-x)Al_(x)N. Alternatively, the refractory layer is deposited as a plurality of M_(1-x)Al_(x)N sublayers. Further, sublayers of other refractory material can be employed in conjunction with M_(1-x)Al_(x)N sublayers to form the refractory layer. In some embodiments, sublayers comprising one or more elements selected from the group consisting of aluminum and metallic elements of Groups IVB, VB and VIB of the Periodic Table and one or more non-metallic elements of Groups IIIA, IVA, VA and VIA of the Periodic Table are employed with the M_(1-x)Al_(x)N sublayers to provide the refractory layer. M_(1-x)Al_(x)N sublayers and sublayers of other refractory material can have any desired individual thicknesses such that summation of the sublayer thicknesses is greater than 5 μm. In some embodiments, a M_(1-x)Al_(x)N sublayer and/or sublayer of other refractory material has a thickness of 50 nm to 5 μm.

Further, M_(1-x)Al_(x)N sublayers forming the refractory layer can demonstrate variances in residual compressive stress. For example, individual M_(1-x)Al_(x)N sublayer(s) having low residual compressive stress can be employed in conjunction with M_(1-x)Al_(x)N sublayer(s) of higher residual compressive stress to form the refractory layer having an overall residual compressive stress of less than 2.5 GPa. Similarly, residual stress levels between M_(1-x)Al_(x)N sublayers and sublayers of other refractory material can be varied to form the refractory layer having an overall residual compressive stress of less than 2.5 GPa. In some embodiments, M_(1-x)Al_(x)N sublayer(s) having low residual compressive stress can be employed in conjunction with sublayer(s) of other refractory material of higher residual compressive stress, such as TiN, to form the refractory layer having an overall residual compressive stress of less than 2.5 GPa. Alternatively, sublayer(s) of other refractory material, such as TiN, can exhibit lower residual compressive stress than the M_(1-x)Al_(x)N sublayer(s) of the refractory layer. In embodiments wherein sublayer residual compressive stress levels are varied, at least 30 vol. % of the refractory layer is formed by sublayers having residual compressive stress less than 2.5 GPa. In some embodiments, at least 40 vol. % or at least 50 vol. % of the refractory layer is formed by sublayers having residual compressive stress less than 2.5 GPa.

As set forth above in the description of the modified Sin² Ψ method for residual stress analysis of the refractory layer, the grazing incidence angle is set to minimize substrate reflections while insuring that the entire refractory layer thickness is included in the analysis. Therefore, for a refractory layer formed of M_(1-x)Al_(x)N sublayers with optional sublayers of other refractory material, the residual compressive stress analysis takes into account residual compressive stresses of the sublayers to yield a value of less than 2.5 GPa for the refractory layer. In some embodiments, for example, M_(1-x)Al_(x)N sublayers of low residual compressive stress are alternated with M_(1-x)Al_(x)N sublayers of higher residual compressive stress to form the refractory layer, thereby providing residual stress gradient(s) in the refractory layer. As described herein, M_(1-x)Al_(x)N sublayers of low residual compressive stress can also be alternated with sublayers of other refractory material of higher residual compressive stress to form the refractory layer, thereby providing residual stress gradient(s) in the refractory layer.

In addition to differing values of residual compressive stress, M_(1-x)Al_(x)N sublayers forming the refractory layer can demonstrate differing grain sizes. For example, M_(1-x)Al_(x)N sublayers of higher residual compressive stress can display smaller average grain size than M_(1-x)Al_(x)N sublayers of lower residual compressive stress, thereby establishing grain size gradient(s) in the refractory layer. Grain size of a M_(1-x)Al_(x)N sublayer can be determined in accordance with the XRD technique described below.

Moreover, M_(1-x)Al_(x)N sublayers forming the refractory layer can have substantially the same value for x or differing values for x. For example, M_(1-x)Al_(x)N sublayers can have substantially the same value for x selected from Table I or differing values of x selected from Table I. In having differing values, a compositional gradient of aluminum can be established in the refractory layer.

Additionally, the refractory layer can be deposited as a plurality of sublayer groups, a sublayer group comprising a cubic phase forming nanolayer and an adjacent nanolayer of the M_(1-x)Al_(x)N. A cubic phase forming nanolayer can comprise a cubic nitride, cubic carbide or cubic carbonitride of one or more metallic elements selected from the group consisting of yttrium, silicon and metallic elements of Groups IIIA, IVB, VB and VIB of the Periodic Table. In some embodiments, for example, a cubic phase forming nanolayer is selected from the group consisting of titanium nitride, titanium carbide, zirconium nitride, tantalum carbide, niobium carbide, niobium nitride, hafnium nitride, hafnium carbide, vanadium carbide, vanadium nitride, chromium nitride, aluminum titanium nitride, cubic boron nitride, aluminum chromium nitride, titanium carbonitride and aluminum titanium carbonitride. Further, in some embodiments, a cubic phase forming nanolayer displays hexagonal phase in addition to the cubic phase. A cubic phase forming nanolayer of AlTiN, AlCrN and/or AlZrN for example, can demonstrate low amounts of hexagonal phase.

Thickness of a sublayer group comprising a M_(1-x)Al_(x)N nanolayer deposited on a cubic phase forming nanolayer can generally range from 5 nm to 50 nm. In some embodiments, a sublayer group has a thickness in the range of 10 nm to 40 nm. Thickness of an individual M_(1-x)Al_(x)N nanolayer can range from 5 nm to 30 nm with the thickness of an individual cubic phase forming nanolayer ranging from 2 nm to 20 nm.

Further, nanolayers of M_(1-x)Al_(x)N and cubic phase forming compositions can demonstrate grain size distributions of 1 nm to 15 nm. Grain size distributions of nanolayers described herein can be determined according to X-ray diffraction (XRD) techniques. Crystallite or grain size determination by XRD is the result of ascertaining the integral peak width and peak shape of the diffracted sample pattern. The analysis of grain size by the Rietveld method is based on the change of the parameters to determine the sample peak profile compared to a standard peak profile. The profile parameters depend on the instrument settings used for data collection and on the profile function used for refinement.

XRD analysis is completed using a grazing incidence technique and XRD instrumentation and settings described below for hexagonal phase determination. A size-strain standard is measured. NIST standard SRM 660b Line Position and Line Shape Standard for Powder Diffraction is used for this purpose. A high quality scan is obtained for the standard (e.g. ≧140 degrees 2θ) with optics tuned for resolution. The standard structure is loaded and refined. Suitable Rietveld refinement parameters are provided in the description of hexagonal phase determination below. The Rietveld refinement for crystallite size depends on the profile function used to identify the peaks and typically includes:

U parameter describes peak FWHM V parameter describes peak FWHM W parameter describes peak FWHM Peak Shape 1 describes the peak shape function parameter Peak Shape 2 describes the peak shape function parameter Peak Shape 3 describes the peak shape function parameter Asymmetry describes peak asymmetry for the Rietveld or Howard Model

Refinement of the standard defines the peak profile parameters strictly due to the instrument. This refinement is saved as the instrument peak broadening standard. The unknown sample data is imported into this standard refinement and then has peak profile refinement completed using the same parameters as the size standard. The results of the refinement of the peak profiles on the unknown sample determine the crystallite size.

FIG. 2 is a schematic of a coated cutting tool according to one embodiment described herein. The coated cutting tool (20) of FIG. 2 comprises a cutting tool substrate (21) and a coating (22) adhered to the substrate (21). The coating (22) is formed of a refractory layer (23) having a plurality of sublayer groups (24). A sublayer group (24) comprises a cubic phase forming nanolayer (25) and an adjacent nanolayer of M_(1-x)Al_(x)N (26). The sublayer groups (24) are repeated or stacked to provide the refractory layer (23) the desired thickness. Alternatively, the refractory layer (23) is formed of a single layer of M_(1-x)Al_(x)N not comprising sublayer groups.

FIG. 10 is a schematic of a coated cutting tool according to one embodiment described herein. The coated cutting tool (50) of FIG. 10 comprises a cutting tool substrate (51) and a coating (52) adhered to the substrate (50). The coating is formed of a single, monolithic refractory layer (53) of M_(1-x)Al_(x)N, wherein x is selected from Table I herein. Further, the M_(1-x)Al_(x)N refractory layer (53) can have any combination of properties selected from Tables II-VI herein. In some embodiments, for example, the M_(1-x)Al_(x)N refractory layer (53) has a value of x≧0.68 or ≧0.69 and a hardness of at least 25 GPa.

The refractory layer comprising M_(1-x)Al_(x)N can be adhered directly to the substrate as illustrated in FIGS. 2 and 10. Alternatively, the refractory layer can be adhered to the substrate by one or more intermediate refractory layers. Intermediate refractory layer(s) of the coating can comprise one or more metallic elements selected from the group consisting of aluminum and metallic elements of Groups IVB, VB and VIB of the Periodic Table and one or more non-metallic elements selected from the group consisting of nonmetallic elements of Groups IIIA, IVA, VA and VIA of the Periodic Table. For example, in some embodiments, one or more intermediate layers of TiN, AlTiN, TiC, TiCN or Al₂O₃ can be positioned between the cutting tool substrate and the refractory layer. Intermediate layer(s) can have any desired thickness not inconsistent with the objectives of the present invention. In some embodiments, an intermediate layer has a thickness in the range of 100 nm to 5 μm.

Moreover, the coating can further comprise one or more outer refractory layers over the refractory layer comprising M_(1-x)Al_(x)N. Outer refractory layer(s) of the coating can comprise one or more metallic elements selected from the group consisting of aluminum and metallic elements of Groups IVB, VB and VIB of the Periodic Table and one or more non-metallic elements selected from the group consisting of nonmetallic elements of Groups IIIA, IVA, VA and VIA of the Periodic Table. For example, in some embodiments, one or more outer refractory layers of TiN, AlTiN, TiC, TiCN or Al₂O₃ can be positioned over the refractory layer of M_(1-x)Al_(x)N. Outer refractory layer(s) can have any desired thickness not inconsistent with the objectives of the present invention. In some embodiments, an outer refractory layer has a thickness in the range of 100 nm to 5 μm.

FIG. 3 illustrates a schematic of a coated cutting tool according to one embodiment described herein. The coated cutting tool (30) of FIG. 3 comprises a cutting tool substrate (31) and a coating (32) adhered to the substrate (31). The coating (32) comprises a refractory layer (33) having a plurality of sublayer groups (34). As in FIG. 2, a sublayer group (34) comprises a cubic phase forming nanolayer (35) and an adjacent nanolayer of M_(1-x)Al_(x)N (36). The sublayer groups (34) are repeated or stacked to provide the refractory layer (33) the desired thickness. An intermediate layer (37) is positioned between the cutting tool substrate (31) and the refractory layer (33). In some embodiments, the intermediate layer (37) is a single layer. Alternatively, the intermediate layer (37) can adopt a multilayer structure.

II. Methods of Making Coated Cutting Tools

In another aspect, methods of making coated cutting tools are described herein. A method of making a coated cutting tool comprises providing a substrate and depositing over a surface of the cutting tool substrate by cathodic arc deposition a coating comprising a refractory layer including M_(1-x)Al_(x)N wherein x≧0.4 and M is titanium, chromium or zirconium, the refractory layer having a thickness greater than 5 μm, a hardness of at least 25 GPa and a residual compressive stress less than 2.5 GPa.

The refractory layer comprising M_(1-x)Al_(x)N wherein x≧0.4 and M is titanium, chromium or zirconium can have any compositional parameters, structure and/or properties described for the refractory layer in Section I hereinabove. The refractory layer of M_(1-x)Al_(x)N, for example, can have a value of x selected from Table I herein, a hexagonal phase content selected from Table II herein, hardness selected form Table III herein, thickness selected from Table IV herein and residual compressive stress selected from Table V herein.

The refractory layer can be deposited as a single continuous layer of M_(1-x)Al_(x)N. In some embodiments, for example, a single continuous layer of M_(1-x)Al_(x)N having composition and properties selected from Tables I-V herein is deposited by cathodic arc deposition using one or more cathodes having diameter less than about 80 mm. In some embodiments, each cathode of the cathodic arc deposition apparatus has a diameter less than 80 mm. Further, composition of the cathodes having diameter less than 80 mm can be chosen to limit hexagonal phase formation in the refractory layer of M_(1-x)Al_(x)N. For example, cathode composition can be chosen to have an aluminum (Al) content greater than 0.5. In some embodiments, cathode(s) having diameter less than 80 mm and composition of Ti_(0.33)Al_(0.67) are employed to limit hexagonal phase formation in the refractory layer of M_(1-x)Al_(x)N. Such as result is counterintuitive given that high Al content cathodes can facilitate hexagonal phase formation.

Alternatively, the single continuous layer of M_(1-x)Al_(x)N can be deposited with a reduction in magnitude of one or more arc steering magnetic fields. As known to one of skill in the art, electromagnets and/or permanent magnets of various strengths can be positioned behind cathodes to steer movement of the arc spots on the cathodes. According to some embodiments described herein, reduction in magnitude of one or more arc steering magnetic fields can produce refractory layer(s) of M_(1-x)Al_(x)N having compositional parameters and properties described in Section I above. Reduction in magnitude of one or more arc steering magnetic fields can be administered by selection of weak electromagnet(s) for positioning behind cathode(s) of the deposition apparatus. For example, when using INNOVA cathodic arc deposition apparatus from OC Oerlikon Balzers AG, a reduction in arc steering magnetic field can be achieved by positioning a weak electromagnet (e.g. Mag 6) behind one or more cathodes of the apparatus. The weak electromagnet(s) can be run at a current of 0.1 A to 0.8 A. In some embodiments, the current of the weak electromagnet is 0.2-0.5 A. It is contemplated herein that a variety of weak electromagnet configurations are operable to provide the required reduction in magnitude of one or more arc steering fields to realize M_(1-x)Al_(x)N refractory layers having compositions and properties described herein.

A reduction in magnitude of one or more arc steering fields can also be administered with various permanent magnet configurations. For example, magnetic disc number and/or size behind cathodes of the deposition apparatus can be reduced or otherwise altered to effectuate sufficient reduction in magnitude of one or more arc steering fields for producing refractory layer(s) described herein. It is within the purview of one of skill in the art to employ the foregoing principles when presented with cathodic arc deposition apparatus of varying construction to provide suitable reduction in magnitude of arc steering field(s).

Further, the single continuous layer of M_(1-x)Al_(x)N having composition and properties described in Section I can be deposited with a cathodic arc deposition apparatus comprising at least one anode having an annular extension. In some embodiments, each anode in the cathodic arc deposition apparatus has an annular extension. The annular extension of the anode can partially overlap with a frontal surface of the associated cathode. Additionally, a confinement ring can be positioned between the cathode and anodic annular extension. FIG. 4 is a cross-sectional schematic of an anode configuration employing an annular extension according to one embodiment described herein. As illustrated in FIG. 4, the anode (40) encircles the cathode (41) in the cathodic arc construction. The annular extension (43) projects above the frontal surface (44) of the anode (40). A confinement ring (45) is positioned between the annular extension (43) and the cathode (41).

The refractory layer can also be deposited as a plurality of M_(1-x)Al_(x)N sublayers. Thickness and residual compressive stress of the individual M_(1-x)Al_(x)N sublayers can be controlled by adjusting target evaporation rates, bias voltages and/or other PVD parameters.

As described herein, the refractory layer can also be deposited as a plurality of sublayer groups, a sublayer group comprising a cubic phase forming nanolayer and an adjacent nanolayer of the M_(1-x)Al_(x)N. Compositional parameters of suitable cubic phase forming nanolayers are described in Section I herein. Further, cubic phase forming nanolayers and nanolayers of M_(1-x)Al_(x)N can demonstrate thicknesses and grain size distributions provided in Section I. Thickness of cubic phase forming nanolayers and M_(1-x)Al_(x)N nanolayers can be controlled by adjusting target evaporation rates among other PVD parameters.

Bias voltages employed during cathodic arc deposition of the M_(1-x)Al_(x)N refractory layer can generally range from −20V to −80 V. As described herein, at least a portion of the refractory layer comprising M_(1-x)Al_(x)N can be deposited at a bias of less than −40 V. For example, the bias can be in the range of −20 V to less than −40 V. In some embodiments, the entire refractory layer is deposited at a bias of less than −40V. As further discussed in the Examples presented herein, it has been surprisingly found that use of cathode(s) having diameter less than 80 mm, use of anodes having an annular extension and/or reducing magnitude of one or more arc steering magnetic fields can limit hexagonal phase formation in the refractory layer formed of M_(1-x)Al_(x)N to 0-35 weight percent at deposition bias voltages less −40V. Similarly, deposition of the refractory layer comprising M_(1-x)Al_(x)N as a plurality of sublayer groups, including cubic phase forming nanolayers, can also limit hexagonal phase formation to 0-35 weight percent at bias voltages less than −40 V. In some embodiments, the foregoing cathodic arc deposition methods limit hexagonal phase formation to greater than 15 weight percent and up to 35 weight percent at bias voltages less than −40 V. The ability to limit hexagonal phase formation permits the deposited refractory layer comprising M_(1-x)Al_(x)N to maintain desirable hardness. Further, bias voltages less than −40 V can limit excessive residual compressive stress in the refractory layer of M_(1-x)Al_(x)N. Therefore, refractory layers comprising M_(1-x)Al_(x)N having desirable hardness can be deposited at thicknesses not previously realized. When coupled with values for x≧0.4, refractory layers comprising M_(1-x)Al_(x)N can also demonstrate desirable oxidation resistance in high temperature cutting applications.

In another embodiment, a method of making a coated cutting tool described herein comprises providing a cutting tool substrate and depositing a coating over a surface of the substrate, the coating comprising a refractory layer including M_(1-x)Al_(x)N wherein x≧0.64 and M is titanium, chromium or zirconium, the refractory layer having hardness of at least 25 GPa, wherein the refractory layer is deposited with a cathodic arc deposition apparatus comprising at least one anode having an annular extension. In some embodiments, each anode in the cathodic arc deposition apparatus has an annular extension. The annular extension of the anode can partially overlap with a frontal surface of the associated cathode. Additionally, a confinement ring can be positioned between the cathode and anodic annular extension. For example, in some embodiments, an anode configuration having an annular extension is illustrated in FIG. 4 herein.

Additionally, the cathodic arc deposition apparatus of methods described herein can employ cathode(s) having increased aluminum content. In some embodiments, for example, one or more cathodes of the cathodic arc deposition apparatus have a construction selected from Table VII.

TABLE VII Cathode Construction Al₇₀Ti₃₀ Al₇₃Ti₂₇ Al₇₅Ti₂₅ Al₈₀Ti₂₀ For example, cathodes of Table VII, for example, can be used in conjunction with an annular extension when depositing the refractory layer. In another example, cathodes of Table VII can be employed when the refractory layer is deposited as a plurality of sublayer groups. As described herein, a sublayer group comprises a cubic phase forming nanolayer and an adjacent nanolayer of the M_(1-x)Al_(x)N. Compositional parameters of suitable cubic phase forming nanolayers are described in Section I herein. Further, cubic phase forming nanolayers and nanolayers of M_(1-x)Al_(x)N can demonstrate thicknesses and grain size distributions provided in Section I. Thickness of cubic phase forming nanolayers and M_(1-x)Al_(x)N nanolayers can be controlled by adjusting target evaporation rates among other PVD parameters.

Bias voltages for the cathodic arc deposition apparatus employing at least one anode having an annular extension can generally range from −40V to −80V. In some embodiments, bias voltage is set to −40V, −60V or −80V. Additionally, the bias voltage can be varied in the range of −40V to −80V during deposition of the M_(1-x)Al_(x)N refractory layer.

The refractory layer of M_(1-x)Al_(x)N deposited by a cathodic arc deposition apparatus comprising at least one anode having an annular extension can have any construction and properties described in Section I herein, including any combination of properties listed in Tables I-VI. In some embodiments, for example, the M_(1-x)Al_(x)N refractory layer has a value of x≧0.68, x≧0.69 or ≧0.7 and hardness of at least 25 GPa or at least 27 GPa.

These and other embodiments are further illustrated in the following non-limiting examples.

Example 1 Coated Cutting Tool

A cutting tool was coated with a refractory layer formed of a plurality of sublayer groups, each sublayer group comprising a cubic phase forming nanolayer of TiN and an adjacent nanolayer of M_(1-x)Al_(x)N, wherein M was titanium and x≧0.6. The refractory layer was deposited by cathodic arc evaporation on a cemented carbide (WC-6 wt. % Co) indexable insert substrate [ANSI standard geometry CNGP433] at a substrate temperature of 550-600° C., biasing voltage −20V, nitrogen partial pressure of 4.0-4.5 Pa and argon partial pressure of 0.5-1.0 Pa. INNOVA PVD apparatus from OC Oerlikon Balzers AG was employed for the coating deposition. Cubic phase forming nanolayers of TiN and nanolayers of Ti_(1-x)Al_(x)N (x≧0.6) were deposited in alternating succession using cathode constructions of Table VIII to provide the refractory layer.

TABLE VIII Cathode Constructions Cubic Phase Ti_(1-x)Al_(x)N Forming Nanolayer Nanolayer Example Cathode Cathode 1 Ti Ti_(0.33)Al_(0.67) Properties of the resulting refractory layer are provided in Table IX. Hexagonal phase content, residual compressive stress and hardness of the refractory layer were determined according to their respective techniques described in Section I herein.

TABLE IX Refractory Layer Properties Residual Refractory Hardness Compressive Hexagonal Phase Layer Thickness Example (GPa) Stress (MPa) (wt. %) (μm) 1 28.7 1950 32.7 7.1 As provided in Table IX, the refractory layer demonstrated high hardness, low residual compressive stress and high thickness. Further, FIG. 5 is an X-ray diffractogram of the refractory coating of Example 1. As illustrated in the diffractogram, TiAlN of the refractory layer was present in cubic and hexagonal form.

Example 2 Coated Cutting Tool

A coated cutting tool was made in accordance with Example 1, the differences being the bias voltage was increased to −45 V and the cemented carbide substrate geometry was ANSI standard geometry CNGP432. Properties of the resulting refractory layer are provided in Table X. Hexagonal phase content, residual compressive stress and hardness of the refractory layer were determined according to their respective techniques described in Section I herein.

TABLE X Refractory Layer Properties Residual Refractory Hardness Compressive Hexagonal Phase Layer Thickness Example (GPa) Stress (MPa) (wt. %) (μm) 2 31.0 1081 32.2 6.3 Similar to Example 1, the coated cutting tool of Example 2 demonstrated high hardness, low residual compressive stress and high thickness. FIG. 6 is an X-ray diffractogram of the refractory coating of Example 2.

Example 3 Coated Cutting Tool

A cutting tool was coated with a single, monolithic refractory layer of Ti_(1-x)Al_(x)N (x>0.6). The Ti_(1-x)Al_(x)N refractory layer was deposited by cathodic arc deposition on a cemented carbide (WC-6 wt. % Co) indexable insert substrate [ANSI standard geometry SNG433] at a substrate temperature of 550-600° C., biasing voltage −30V, nitrogen partial pressure of 4.0-4.5 Pa and argon partial pressure of 0.5-1.0 Pa. INNOVA cathodic arc apparatus from OC Oerlikon Balzers AG was employed for the refractory layer deposition. Cathode composition was Ti_(0.33)Al_(0.67) and anodes of the apparatus employed annular extensions. The INNOVA cathodic arc apparatus, for example, was run in the Advanced Plasma Optimizer (APO) configuration incorporating annular extensions for the anodes therein. Properties of the resulting refractory layer are provided in Table XI. Hexagonal phase content, residual compressive stress and hardness of the refractory layer were determined according to their respective techniques described in Section I herein.

TABLE XI Refractory Layer Properties Residual Refractory Hardness Compressive Hexagonal Phase Layer Thickness Example (GPa) Stress (MPa) (wt. %) (μm) 3 29.4 2053 0 8.1 As provided in Table XI, the refractory layer demonstrated high hardness, low residual compressive stress and high thickness. FIG. 7 is an X-ray diffractogram of the refractory coating of Example 3. As provided in FIG. 7, TiAlN of the refractory layer was single-phase cubic. Moreover, the TiAlN refractory layer of this Example did not employ cubic phase forming layers rendering it structurally divergent from Examples 1 and 2 herein.

Example 4 Coated Cutting Tool

A cutting tool was coated with a single, monolithic refractory layer of Ti_(1-x)Al_(x)N (x>0.6). The Ti_(1-x)Al_(x)N refractory layer was deposited by cathodic arc deposition on a cemented carbide (WC-6 wt. % Co) indexable insert substrate [ANSI standard geometry CNGP432] at a substrate temperature of 550-600° C., biasing voltage −30V, nitrogen partial pressure of 4.0-4.5 Pa and argon partial pressure of 0.5-1.0 Pa. INNOVA cathodic arc apparatus from OC Oerlikon Balzers AG was employed for the refractory layer deposition. Cathode composition was Ti_(0.33)Al_(0.67) and weak electromagnets (e.g. Mag 6) were positioned behind the cathodes to produce arc steering magnetic fields with reduced magnitude. Current for the electromagnets was set in the range of 0.2-0.4 A.

Properties of the resulting refractory layer are provided in Table XII. Hexagonal phase content, residual compressive stress and hardness of the refractory layer were determined according to their respective techniques described in Section I herein.

TABLE XII Refractory Layer Properties Residual Refractory Hardness Compressive Hexagonal Phase Layer Thickness Example (GPa) Stress (MPa) (wt. %) (μm) 4 26.4 838 0 7.8 As provided in Table XII, the refractory layer demonstrated high hardness, low residual compressive stress and high thickness. FIG. 8 is an X-ray diffractogram of the refractory coating of Example 4. As provided in FIG. 8, TiAlN of the refractory layer was single-phase cubic. Moreover, the TiAlN refractory layer of this Example did not employ cubic phase forming layers rendering it structurally divergent from Examples 1 and 2 herein.

Example 5 Coated Cutting Tools

A cutting tool (5) was coated with a single, monolithic refractory layer of Ti_(1-x)Al_(x)N (x=0.64). The Ti_(1-x)Al_(x)N refractory layer was deposited by cathodic arc deposition on a cemented carbide (WC-6 wt. % Co) indexable insert substrate [ANSI standard geometry SNG433] at a substrate temperature of 550-600° C., biasing voltage −40V, nitrogen partial pressure of 4.0-4.5 Pa and argon partial pressure of 0.5-1.0 Pa. INNOVA cathodic arc apparatus from OC Oerlikon Balzers AG was employed for the refractory layer deposition. Cathode composition was Ti_(0.30)Al_(0.70) and anodes of the apparatus employed annular extensions. The INNOVA cathodic arc apparatus, for example, was run in the Advanced Plasma Optimizer (APO) configuration incorporating annular extensions for the anodes therein. Two additional cutting tools (6, 7) were coated according to the protocol of this Example 5, the sole difference being cutting tool (6) was produced at a bias of −60V and cutting tool (7) was produced at a bias of −80V. Properties of the resulting refractory layers are provided in Table XIII. Hardness, hexagonal phase content and critical load of the refractory layers were determined according to their respective techniques described in Section I herein.

TABLE XIII Refractory Layer Properties Critical Refractory Hardness Load (L_(c)) Hexagonal Phase Layer Thickness Example 5 (GPa) kgf (wt. %) (μm) 5 29.3 >150 <5 2.4 6 29.7 >150 <5 2.5 7 29.7 >150 <5 2.5 FIG. 11 is an X-ray diffractogram of the Ti_(1-x)Al_(x)N coating of cutting tool (1) of Example 5. As illustrated in FIG. 11, the Ti_(1-x)Al_(x)N coating exhibited cubic and hexagonal crystalline phases.

Example 6 Coated Cutting Tools

A cutting tool (8) was coated with a single, monolithic refractory layer of Ti_(1-x)Al_(x)N (x=0.67). The Ti_(1-x)Al_(x)N refractory layer was deposited by cathodic arc deposition on a cemented carbide (WC-6 wt. % Co) indexable insert substrate [ANSI standard geometry SNG433] at a substrate temperature of 550-600° C., biasing voltage −40V, nitrogen partial pressure of 4.0-4.5 Pa and argon partial pressure of 0.5-1.0 Pa. INNOVA cathodic arc apparatus from OC Oerlikon Balzers AG was employed for the refractory layer deposition. Cathode composition was Ti_(0.27)Al_(0.73) and anodes of the apparatus employed annular extensions. The INNOVA cathodic arc apparatus was run in the Advanced Plasma Optimizer (APO) configuration incorporating annular extensions for the anodes therein. Two additional cutting tools (9, 10) were coated according to the protocol of this Example 6, the sole difference being cutting tool (9) was produced at a bias of −60V and cutting tool (10) was produced at a bias of −80V. Properties of the resulting refractory layers are provided in Table XIV. Hardness and critical load of the refractory layers were determined according to their respective techniques described in Section I herein.

TABLE XIV Refractory Layer Properties Critical Load (L_(c)) Refractory Layer Example 6 Hardness (GPa) kgf Thickness (μm) 8 26.0 >150 2.7 9 27.2 >150 2.5 10 28.8 >150 2.5 Cubic and hexagonal phases were present in the Ti_(0.33)Al_(0.67)N refractory layer of cutting tools 8-10.

Example 7 Coated Cutting Tools

A cutting tool (11) was coated with a single, monolithic refractory layer of Ti_(1-x)Al_(x)N (x=0.7). The Ti_(1-x)Al_(x)N refractory layer was deposited by cathodic arc deposition on a cemented carbide (WC-6 wt. % Co) indexable insert substrate [ANSI standard geometry SNG433] at a substrate temperature of 550-600° C., biasing voltage −40V, nitrogen partial pressure of 4.0-4.5 Pa and argon partial pressure of 0.5-1.0 Pa. INNOVA cathodic arc apparatus from OC Oerlikon Balzers AG was employed for the refractory layer deposition. Cathode composition was Ti_(0.25)Al_(0.75) and anodes of the apparatus employed annular extensions. The INNOVA cathodic arc apparatus was run in the Advanced Plasma Optimizer (APO) configuration incorporating annular extensions for the anodes therein. Two additional cutting tools (12, 13) were coated according to the protocol of this Example 7, the sole difference being cutting tool (12) was produced at a bias of −60V and cutting tool (13) was produced at a bias of −80V. Properties of the resulting refractory layers are provided in Table XV. Hardness, critical load and hexagonal phase of the refractory layers were determined according to their respective techniques described in Section I herein.

TABLE XV Refractory Layer Properties Refractory Hexagonal Hardness Critical Load (L_(c)) Layer Thickness Phase Example 7 (GPa) kgf (μm) (wt. %) 11 25.0 >150 2.6 <30 12 26.9 >150 2.4 <30 13 26.5 >150 2.8 <30 The deposited Ti_(1-x)Al_(x)N coatings exhibited less than 30 wt. % hexagonal phase with the remainder crystalline phase being cubic.

Example 8 Coated Cutting Tools

A cutting tool (14) was coated with a single, monolithic refractory layer of Ti_(1-x)Al_(x)N (x=0.76). The Ti_(1-x)Al_(x)N refractory layer was deposited by cathodic arc deposition on a cemented carbide (WC-6 wt. % Co) indexable insert substrate [ANSI standard geometry SNG433] at a substrate temperature of 550-600° C., biasing voltage −60V, nitrogen partial pressure of 4.0-4.5 Pa and argon partial pressure of 0.5-1.0 Pa. INNOVA cathodic arc apparatus from OC Oerlikon Balzers AG was employed for the refractory layer deposition. Cathode composition was Ti_(0.20)Al_(0.80) and anodes of the apparatus employed annular extensions. The INNOVA cathodic arc apparatus was run in the Advanced Plasma Optimizer (APO) configuration incorporating annular extensions for the anodes therein. An additional cutting tool (14) was coated according to the protocol of this Example 8, the sole difference being cutting tool (14) was produced at a bias of −80V. Properties of the resulting refractory layers are provided in Table XVI. Hardness and critical load of the refractory layers were determined according to their respective techniques described in Section I herein.

TABLE XVI Refractory Layer Properties Critical Load (L_(c)) Refractory Layer Example 8 Hardness (GPa) kgf Thickness (μm) 13 25.4 >150 2.7 14 26.1 >150 2.7 The deposited Ti_(1-x)Al_(x)N refractory layers of cutting tools (13 and 14) exhibited cubic and hexagonal crystalline phases.

Various embodiments of the invention have been described in fulfillment of the various objectives of the invention. It should be recognized that these embodiments are merely illustrative of the principles of the present invention. Numerous modifications and adaptations thereof will be readily apparent to those skilled in the art without departing from the spirit and scope of the invention. 

That which is claimed is:
 1. A coated cutting tool comprising: a substrate; and a coating comprising a refractory layer deposited by physical vapor deposition adhered to the substrate, the refractory layer comprising M_(1-x)Al_(x)N wherein x≧0.68 and M is titanium, chromium or zirconium, the refractory layer including a cubic crystalline phase, hardness of at least 25 GPa, thickness of 2 to 8 μm and residual compressive stress less than 2.5 GPa.
 2. The coated cutting tool of claim 1, wherein x≧0.69.
 3. The coated cutting tool of claim 2, having hardness of at least 27 GPa.
 4. The coated cutting tool of claim 1, wherein 0.7≦x≦0.85.
 5. The coated cutting tool of claim 4, wherein the refractory layer has less than 30 weight percent hexagonal phase.
 6. The coated cutting tool of claim 1, wherein the refractory layer has a critical load (L_(c)) of at least 100 kg.
 7. The coated cutting tool of claim 1, wherein the refractory layer has an L_(c) of at least 150 kg.
 8. The coated cutting tool of claim 1, wherein the refractory layer has less than 35 weight percent hexagonal phase.
 9. The coated cutting tool of claim 1, wherein the refractory layer is adhered directly to the substrate.
 10. The coated cutting tool of claim 1, wherein the refractory layer is adhered to the substrate by one or more intermediate refractory layers.
 11. The coated cutting tool of claim 10, wherein the one or more intermediate refractory layers comprise one or more metallic elements selected from the group consisting of aluminum and metallic elements of Groups IVB, VB and VIB of the Periodic Table and one or more non-metallic elements of Groups IIIA, IVA, VA and VIA of the Periodic Table.
 12. The coated cutting tool of claim 11, wherein the one or more intermediate refractory layers are selected from the group consisting of TiN, AlTiN, TiC, TiCN and Al₂O_(3.)
 13. The coated cutting tool of claim 1, wherein the coating further comprises one or more outer refractory layers over the refractory layer.
 14. The coated cutting tool of claim 13, wherein the one or more outer refractory layers comprise one or more metallic elements selected from the group consisting of aluminum and metallic elements of Groups IVB, VB and VIB of the Periodic Table and one or more non-metallic elements of Groups IIIA, IVA, VA and VIA of the Periodic Table.
 15. The coated cutting tool of claim 1, wherein the substrate is formed of cemented carbide, carbide, ceramic or steel.
 16. The coated cutting tool of claim 1, wherein M is titanium.
 17. The coated cutting tool of claim 1 having residual compressive stress less than 1.5 GPa.
 18. The coated cutting tool of claim 1, wherein the refractory layer has 3-30 weight percent hexagonal phase.
 19. The coated cutting tool of claim 1, wherein the refractory layer has 20-35 weight percent hexagonal phase.
 20. A coated cutting tool comprising: a substrate; and a coating comprising a refractory layer deposited by physical vapor deposition adhered to the substrate, the refractory layer comprising M_(1-x)Al_(x)N wherein x≧0.68 and M is titanium, chromium or zirconium, the refractory layer having thickness of 1 μm to 10 μm and including a cubic crystalline phase and hardness of at least 27 GPa and residual compressive stress less than 2.5 GPa.
 21. The coated cutting tool of claim 20, wherein x≧0.69.
 22. The coated cutting tool of claim 20, wherein 0.7≦x≦0.85 .
 23. The coated cutting tool of claim 22, wherein the refractory layer has less than 30 weight percent hexagonal phase.
 24. The coated cutting tool of claim 20, wherein the refractory layer has a critical load (L_(c)) of at least 100 kg.
 25. The coated cutting tool of claim 20, wherein the refractory layer has a thickness of 2 to 8 μm.
 26. The coated cutting tool of claim 25 having residual compressive stress less than 1.5 GPa.
 27. The coated cutting tool of claim 20, wherein the refractory layer is adhered directly to the substrate.
 28. The coated cutting tool of claim 20, wherein the refractory layer is adhered to the substrate by one or more intermediate refractory layers.
 29. The coated cutting tool of claim 28, wherein the one or more intermediate refractory layers are selected from the group consisting of TiN, AlTiN, TiC, TiCN and Al₂O_(3.)
 30. The coated cutting tool of claim 20, wherein the coating further comprises one or more outer refractory layers over the refractory layer, the one or more outer refractory layers comprising one or more metallic elements selected from the group consisting of aluminum and metallic elements of Groups IVB, VB and VIB of the Periodic Table and one or more non-metallic elements of Groups IIIA, IVA, VA and VIA of the Periodic Table.
 31. The coated cutting tool of claim 20, wherein the refractory layer has 3-30 weight percent hexagonal phase.
 32. The coated cutting tool of claim 20, wherein the refractory layer has 20-35 weight percent hexagonal phase. 